The travel and cruise industry has witnessed a significant shift in consumer preferences towards experiential vacations, opening new pathways for market expansion. In this evolving market landscape, Ponant Explorations Group—an established leader in luxury cruising—has taken a momentous step by acquiring Aqua Expeditions, a predominantly river cruise-focused operator. This strategic acquisition not only enhances Ponant’s
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In a groundbreaking effort to boost its presence in the competitive cruise industry, MSC Cruises is making its debut in the Super Bowl advertising arena. Scheduled to air during the highly anticipated game on February 9, the 60-second commercial will feature prominent actors Drew Barrymore and Orlando Bloom. This strategic move signals the company’s commitment
The Walt Disney Company is set to embark on a significant transition as it reassigns key executives to new roles within its expansive operations. This shift indicates the company’s strategic intent to harness seasoned leadership to enhance its offerings in both entertainment and tourism. Ken Potrock, Thomas Mazloum, Joe Schott, and Andrew Bolstein are at
Jacques Pepin is widely regarded as a pivotal figure in shaping Oceania Cruises’ culinary vision. Joining the cruise line as its first executive culinary director in 2003, Pepin’s influence has been profound, spanning a remarkable two decades. His illustrious career encompasses a range of roles, including chef, restaurateur, culinary instructor, and television personality—evidencing his multifaceted
Celebrity Cruises is embarking on a transformative journey with the introduction of its newest vessel, Celebrity Xcel, set to grace the seas in November. What sets this Edge-class ship apart is the unique initiative titled “Dream Makers,” which enhances guest involvement in cruise experience development. Inviting public participation underscores a revolutionary approach in the cruise
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH) is experiencing a transformative phase under the leadership of CEO Harry Sommer, who is entering his second year in this pivotal role. With a series of strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing guest experience and operational profitability, Sommer has embarked on a dynamic course that marks a departure from the prior
Cruising the waters of New England and Canada aboard the Zuiderdam, a Holland America Line vessel, presents an extraordinary blend of nostalgia, camaraderie, and entertainment. This cruise, filled predominantly with guests who are part of the baby boomer generation and older, fosters an unplugged atmosphere, allowing passengers to reconnect with one another and reminisce about
The alarming potential ban of TikTok has sent shockwaves through various sectors, particularly the travel industry, where many professionals have embraced the platform for client engagement and business growth. The U.S. Supreme Court’s recent decision to uphold a federal law demanding the sale of TikTok by its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, presents imminent challenges for
In a bold move set to redefine luxury cruising, Virgin Voyages has announced the launch of its much-anticipated annual pass for the year 2026. Priced at a staggering $199,000, this exclusive offer caters to affluent travelers who seek flexibility and unparalleled experiences on the high seas. The pass allows two guests to embark on any
Carnival Cruise Line is gearing up for a significant expansion in the Asia-Pacific region, with the introduction of four new Carnival Journeys cruises that promise to elevate travel experiences for cruise enthusiasts. This strategic move includes itineraries that showcase diverse destinations such as Japan, Southeast Asia, and parts of Australia. The expansion will also feature
The cruise industry is poised for an exciting turnaround as a host of new ships is set to debut in 2024, building on a revitalized demand for maritime travel. While the first half of the year witnessed the emergence of a few upscale offerings, the subsequent months promise to showcase a series of significant launches
Disney Cruise Line is set to embark on an exciting journey with the announcement of a new expansion to its fleet, which will include a fourth ship in the esteemed Wish-class and introduce a novel class of vessels. Scheduled for delivery between 2027 and 2031, these additions signify a bold and strategic move that highlights
The luxury cruise segment is witnessing a seismic shift as Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH) gears up to invest an astounding $5 billion into its upscale brands, Regent Seven Seas and Oceania Cruises, over the next five years. This unprecedented financial commitment underscores the company’s ambition to elevate the luxury cruising experience while simultaneously responding
As one embarks on the Seven Seas Explorer, a voyage filled with the essence of luxury unfolds at every corner. Launched nearly nine years ago, this extraordinary vessel commanded immediate attention with its staggering Regent Suite—occupying a remarkable 4,400 square feet. Initially hailed as the largest suite at sea, the Regent Suite featured a range
Alaska, known for its majestic landscapes and rich wildlife, draws many nature enthusiasts and adventurers. Among its varied offerings, the allure of spotting bears captivates most visitors. However, bear sightings can be elusive, making them a sought-after experience for tourists. On an adventurous excursion from Ketchikan, I embarked on a journey promising a chance to
As the cold grip of winter envelops the landscape, planners and travelers alike might wonder if it’s too early to begin dreaming about fall adventures. However, there’s no better time than now to pencil in a visit to Troy, New York—a town steeped in history and vibrant autumnal beauty. With its picturesque scenery and charm,
The year 2024 has proven particularly challenging for cruise ships, with alarming spikes in gastrointestinal illnesses attributed largely to norovirus outbreaks reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This surge marks a significant decline in the industry’s health safety, showcasing vulnerabilities that demand greater scrutiny. Unlike hotels and other accommodations, cruise lines
Hurtigruten, a prominent name in the realm of Norwegian coastal cruises, has unveiled an enticing initiative aimed at enhancing engagement among travel advisors. The “Sell Three, Sail Free” program is a strategic move to incentivize and reward advisors for promoting their cruise itineraries. This campaign, which runs until April 30, encourages advisors to sell three